ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday issued guidelines to the administrative heads of divisions, attached departments and autonomous bodies for facilitating domestic and foreign investment.

According to a statement, the prime minister directed all federal ministries and departments concerned to prepare a comprehensive code of procedures, which will be followed by applicants and investors for licence, sanction or permission for investment or setting up business in the country.

The prime minister said that all such processes and transactions should be identified to streamline certifications, approvals, licences, permits or similar instruments.

He said the process should be clearly laid down so that investors do not face hindrances. Mr Sharif instructed the officers concerned to adhere to specific timeframes while processing applications, adding that applicants should be informed at each stage of the process.

He asked the ministries and relevant bodies to furnish flowcharts that depict steps, timelines and documentation requirements to facilitate investors. The prime minister said the process should be notified for public information.

Published in Dawn, April 2nd, 2017